Opening batsman SB Saikia, with a splendid 124, enabled Assam to keep Bengal in the field all day while running up a total of 225 for six on the opening day of their East Zone Ranji Trophy league tie against Bengal at the Eden Gardens, Calcutta on Friday.

Winning the toss, Assam had a good start with Saikia and AN Bhagawati (22) putting on 47 runs in 11.4 overs. Saikia was involved in two more fruitful partnerships. With T Rahman (25) he added 63 runs for the third wicket in 31 overs and with SR Das (26 not out) he increased the score by 84 runs during a fifth wicket association which lasted 31 overs. Saikia was fifth out, shortly before stumps were drawn. He batted 343 minutes, faced 267 balls and hit 19 fours and a six. The Bengal skipper U Chatterjee took the bowling honours taking 4 for 50 from 32 overs.

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